SUMMER IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER AND THAT IS OF COURSE A PERFECT TIME TO GO ON HOLIDAY. AUSTRALIA IS A GREAT COUNTRY TO SPEND YOUR SUMMER HOLIDAY IN. THERE ARE MANY GREAT DESTINATIONS TO EXPLORE HERE, PERTH AND MELBOURNE IN PARTICULAR ARE TWO OF THE RECOMMENDED CITIES TO VISIT DOWN UNDER DURING THE SUMMER AND WE’LL TELL YOU WHY IN THIS ARTICLE.
Perth is a marvellous city, yet it is often an overlooked travel destination for those heading to Australia. Possessing a sophisticated and cosmopolitan atmosphere it is also the gateway to many natural attractions within Western Australia – Australia largest state.
Less than 20 kilometres off the coast of Perth is Rottnest Island, an island of powdery white beaches, bays and coves lapped by the clear blue hew of the Indian ocean that close to shore supports a magnificent marine environment. Here 135 species of tropical fish are to be found through 20 species of coral. This is a diving and snorkelling paradise where 13 shipwrecks are marvellous exploration sites. Bike riding and swimming and sightseeing also make this largely unspoiled island paradise a great summer destination.
Fremantle is the port city of Perth and is here that Italian and other immigrants to Australia have turned the streets into a feast of cosmopolitan restaurants for casual or fine dining and cafes of continental flavour in this very community based city. Fremantle worth more than a days visit for its sense carnival and deep-rooted colonial history.
My second destination of this grand summer trip is Melbourne. In 2011 it was voted the ‘World’s Most Liveable City’ and is touted, especially by Melbournians, as the best all round city in Australia.
For a good sniff of country air I visited the Yarra Valley, just an hour’s drive from Melbourne. This charming destination will take visitors through rolling hills strung with vines, secluded natural valleys set against blue mountain backdrops, lush greenery and pastures and past towering trees and pristine rivers to Australia’s most English aspects.
While in Melbourne I took the opportunity to drive to Phillip Island, located less than two hours drive from the city. Named after Arthur Phillip, the first Governor of New South Wales, Phillip Island is a popular weekend tourist getaway, especially during summer months. The island is also known for its fascinating spectacle of the ‘Little Penguin’ walk. This is perhaps one of Australia’s most popular natural attractions as these small penguins return from a day’s fishing at sunset to march together up the beach to their roosts. I was also able to take a great sightseeing walk to Cape Woolamai.
My summer trip to Australia was a real blast. The fresh air and natural splendour has enticed me to make another visit soon. At least one of these two cities should be on your trip list next summer. Book AirAsia to get the best ticket price for direct flights to Australia. For more info click on www.airasia.com